Reports of livestock worrying

Are you a dog owner and do you care about their welfare? We have received a message from Mike Roberts, Police, Rural Crime Prevention Officer, North Worcestershire who reports on a number of reports recently of livestock worrying, particularly in the Bromsgrove district.

Livestock worrying is when loose dogs chase or attack farmed animals and it is a serious problem. Even well-behaved dogs can exhibit predatory behaviour around livestock such as sheep or cows. This behaviour can cause those animals to become extremely stressed or injured, and can be fatal.

Livestock worrying isn’t just a risk to animal welfare; it causes significant distress and financial losses to farmers.

Responsible dog ownership is essential in preventing livestock worrying.  You should always keep your dog under control and on a lead when around livestock, even if you believe your dog is well trained. This shouldn’t just be considered when out and about with your dogs, you should also remember to ensure that your property or boundaries are secure enough to prevent your dogs escaping and venturing into agricultural land.

As well as an owner being prosecuted for an offence,  it is worth remembering that a farmer does have a legal right to shoot a dog in order to protect their property. Which is something none of us would like to happen.